If you’re looking for a healthy yet flavorful twist on classic meatballs, these Spinach and Feta Turkey Meatballs are a must-try. Made with lean ground turkey, fresh spinach, and tangy feta cheese, these meatballs are juicy, satisfying, and packed with protein.
Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or a fun appetizer, they’re perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or even a quick snack. Ready to get rolling? Let’s get started!
Spinach and Feta Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients
For the Turkey Meatballs
- 1 lb ground turkey 93% lean
- 1 cup fresh spinach finely chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs or almond flour for gluten-free option
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil for cooking
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion for added flavor
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Substitutions
- Vegan: Substitute ground turkey with a plant-based meat alternative and use a flax egg 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
Instructions
Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until everything is well combined, but be careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
Form the Meatballs
- Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
- You should get about 12-14 meatballs from the mixture.
Cook the Meatballs
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning the meatballs occasionally to brown them on all sides.
- Once the meatballs are browned, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the meatballs cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
Serve
- Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish and garnish with extra parsley if desired.
- Serve with a side of tzatziki, pita bread, or over a bed of quinoa or couscous.
- Enjoy!
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 3 meatballs):
- Calories: 250-300
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Notes/Advice:
- Additions/Subtractions:
- If you prefer extra moisture, add a tablespoon of olive oil or yogurt to the meatball mixture.
- You can swap spinach for kale or another leafy green for variety.
- Be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture to ensure they stay tender and juicy.
Variations:
- Greek-Style Meatballs: Add 1/4 cup diced Kalamata olives and a squeeze of lemon juice to the meatball mixture for a Greek twist.
- Spicy Meatballs: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
- Baked Meatballs: Instead of pan-frying, bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) on a lined baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden and fully cooked.
Suggestions:
- Serving Ideas: These Spinach and Feta Turkey Meatballs pair perfectly with a side of tzatziki sauce, roasted vegetables, or a simple Greek salad. You can also serve them over pasta or quinoa for a hearty meal.
- Make It Ahead: The meatball mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months and cook them straight from frozen.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
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Final Thoughts:
And there you have it—Spinach and Feta Turkey Meatballs that are flavorful, juicy, and packed with nutritious ingredients! These meatballs are the perfect blend of lean protein from turkey, iron-rich spinach, and the salty, tangy flavor of feta cheese. Whether you’re enjoying them as a main dish, an appetizer, or even meal-prepping for the week, these meatballs are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, get those meatballs cooking, and enjoy this delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish!
